Ryecroft CofE Middle School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 14 September 2022

Ryecroft CofE Middle School has a strong Christian ethos and character. Pupils embrace the school's values of humility, inspiration, perseverance and trust. They learn to listen to each other, respect one another and show kindness to all. Staff know the pupils well and have high expectations of them. The majority of pupils work hard in lessons and focus on their learning. They take pride in their work and can confidently ask for help when they need it. Pupils feel happy and safe at this school. They know that they will be listened to and that their opinions matter. There are clear routines in place for managing behaviour. Nearly all pupils meet the high expectations that leaders have for how they should behave. Bullying is rare. It is dealt with quickly and effectively when it does happen. The curriculum is enhanced by many trips, visits and in-school special events. A wide range of planned activities are available to pupils at lunchtimes and after school. These clubs are well attended by pupils, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND).

What the school should improve

• The way some teachers implement the curriculum means that work is not always well sequenced. This means that some pupils get confused and do not learn and remember all that they should. Leaders should support subject leaders and staff to ensure that the school's ambitious curriculum plans are implemented as intended across all subjects in both key stages.
• At times, staff do not check carefully enough what pupils have learned and remembered. This means that new work does not build on their current knowledge as well as it might. Leaders should support staff to make sure that assessment across the school is more consistent and is used well to plan learning.

Read the full Ofsted report (opens in a new tab)